Screen assemblies and methods of securing screens

摘要

A screen or filter assembly is described as well as improved methods of affixing such assemblies to a portion of an oil or gas production assembly. A nonrigid attachment for reversibly securing a tubular screen to a portion of a production string is disclosed which significantly reduces the risk of the connection between the screen and the production nipple from being broken. In a preferred embodiment, an end cap is described having a projecting lip which secures one end of the screen body to a perforated sub. A removable threaded retaining sleeve is used to secure the other end of the screen body to the perforated sub. A compression ring is associated with the threaded connector to assist in securing the screen body end. A pair of deformable rings are placed adjacent each of the screen body ends to absorb service loads. The screen assembly may be subjected to operational tensile and compressive stresses and thermal expansions and contractions without significant risk of connection failure.